Expert review of Karlskirche

Last updated 29 November 2010

Sacred baroque landmark with a lift to heaven.

The Church of St. Charles, dedicated to the Italian patron saint of the plague, is one of Vienna's finest baroque masterpieces. Built by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach and son and consecrated in 1737, this great edifice is a strange mix of styles. Two Roman columns, depicting scenes from the life of Charles Borromeo stand either side of the central section which looks very much like an ancient Greek temple, and the huge copper dome, is topped with a two-tiered lantern. The huge oval-shaped, marble-filled interior boasts some great frescoes by J. M. Rottmayr.

Particularly noteworthy are those in the dome which, thanks to the ongoing renovation work, can be inspected at close quarters. Take the panorama lift to the platform and then climb the stairs into the clouds. If you are not afraid of heights then continue up into the lantern, it's from there that you can enjoy one of the best bird-eye views across the city. If you can, choose a clear day and you can see forever.